Psychiatrists in Normal, IL
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Balanced Psychiatric Solutions, Beata Janton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761 (Online Only)
I am a double board-certified nurse practitioner in family and psychiatric practice. I have been in practice since 2015, initially in family practice. I worked for a few years in a community health care clinic with patients from underserved populations. I became aware that my patients have complex medical healthcare problems and often have severe mental illnesses that were not treated. I realized that I needed to add a psychiatric specialty to become a competent psychiatric provider. I completed my psychiatric degree from the University of St. Francis. After graduation, I started to work with the underserved population again.
I am a double board-certified nurse practitioner in family and psychiatric practice. I have been in practice since 2015, initially in family practice. I worked for a few years in a community health care clinic with patients from underserved populations. I became aware that my patients have complex medical healthcare problems and often have severe mental illnesses that were not treated. I realized that I needed to add a psychiatric specialty to become a competent psychiatric provider. I completed my psychiatric degree from the University of St. Francis. After graduation, I started to work with the underserved population again.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Elizabeth D'Amore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701
Are you a woman who is seeking support while navigating depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PMDD, perimenopause, fertility treatments, family planning, pregnancy or infant loss, pregnancy & postpartum? I have been surrounded by strong women who have weathered the storm despite every sign telling them to quit. I am a fierce believer that every woman has a unique story and within every woman is a power that is unmatched by anything else in this world. I love this work because I get to witness & help women explore and discover their capacity to love and heal. I would consider it a privilege to be a part of your journey.
Are you a woman who is seeking support while navigating depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, bipolar disorder, PMDD, perimenopause, fertility treatments, family planning, pregnancy or infant loss, pregnancy & postpartum? I have been surrounded by strong women who have weathered the storm despite every sign telling them to quit. I am a fierce believer that every woman has a unique story and within every woman is a power that is unmatched by anything else in this world. I love this work because I get to witness & help women explore and discover their capacity to love and heal. I would consider it a privilege to be a part of your journey.
Illinois Telepsychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704 (Online Only)
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
Dr. Gundu Reddy is licensed in Illinois. Prior to starting residency at Mount Sinai School of medicine, she pursued additional research in HIV Psychiatry. As well as residency training, she has also pursued further training in psychodynamic psychotherapy at the NYU Psychoanalytic Institute. She states that whether prescribing medication, family, or relationship therapy, understanding psychodynamic conflict and causes of symptoms will cause help to enhance the quality of care. As well as psychodynamic training Dr. Reddy also has a background in integrative psychiatry and treatment resistance.
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
Amy Short is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois, with a robust background in nursing leadership and specialized expertise in psychiatric care. Holding an MSN in Nursing Leadership from Chamberlain University and an additional MSN with a focus on PMHNP-BC from Maryville University, Amy combines her leadership skills with advanced psychiatric knowledge to provide comprehensive care. With a diverse clinical background, Amy has worked as a psych nurse in a hospital setting, honing her skills in addressing the complex mental health needs of individuals.
Amy Short is a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Illinois, with a robust background in nursing leadership and specialized expertise in psychiatric care. Holding an MSN in Nursing Leadership from Chamberlain University and an additional MSN with a focus on PMHNP-BC from Maryville University, Amy combines her leadership skills with advanced psychiatric knowledge to provide comprehensive care. With a diverse clinical background, Amy has worked as a psych nurse in a hospital setting, honing her skills in addressing the complex mental health needs of individuals.
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and am dually certified in Family and Psychiatric medicine. Initially, I obtained my Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Degree, as I was unsure of what area of medicine I was interested in. All I knew was that I had a burning desire to improve my patients' overall health and well-being through independent practice. In 2019, I began thinking it was time to start focusing on my passion for mental health. I obtained my Master’s Degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and am Board Certified.I believe an individual must be treated as a whole and not by illness alone.
I am a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and am dually certified in Family and Psychiatric medicine. Initially, I obtained my Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) Degree, as I was unsure of what area of medicine I was interested in. All I knew was that I had a burning desire to improve my patients' overall health and well-being through independent practice. In 2019, I began thinking it was time to start focusing on my passion for mental health. I obtained my Master’s Degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), and am Board Certified.I believe an individual must be treated as a whole and not by illness alone.
Heather Irelan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701 (Online Only)
Located in Illinois, I provide nonjudgmental, compassionate care for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I aim to create a safe space where you feel empowered to explore your mental health and healing journey. I integrate medication management with psychotherapy, tailoring treatment plans to your unique needs and values.
Located in Illinois, I provide nonjudgmental, compassionate care for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I aim to create a safe space where you feel empowered to explore your mental health and healing journey. I integrate medication management with psychotherapy, tailoring treatment plans to your unique needs and values.
Becky D Largent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
I’m Becky Largent, a doctoral prepared Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of experience working to support individuals and families in their journey to achieve mental wellness and emotional stability. I am dedicated to offering comprehensive care through diagnostic evaluation, education, medication and behavioral interventions, counseling and family support. I provide mental health care to children, adolescents, and young adults (18-30) though I work with individuals of all ages.
I’m Becky Largent, a doctoral prepared Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over 20 years of experience working to support individuals and families in their journey to achieve mental wellness and emotional stability. I am dedicated to offering comprehensive care through diagnostic evaluation, education, medication and behavioral interventions, counseling and family support. I provide mental health care to children, adolescents, and young adults (18-30) though I work with individuals of all ages.
We are not meant to face life’s challenges alone. Oftentimes, the path to healing and overall well-being begins with connection. A guide who is able to create a safe space as they walk beside you, is what makes it possible to brave this journey.
We are not meant to face life’s challenges alone. Oftentimes, the path to healing and overall well-being begins with connection. A guide who is able to create a safe space as they walk beside you, is what makes it possible to brave this journey.
Psychiatry & Counseling Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61701
At Psychiatry and Counseling Associates, our staff are dedicated to bringing hope and recovery to individuals struggling with their mental well-being, empowering them to build happy, healthy lives. We are an interdisciplinary team of behavioral health professionals, using evidence-based practices to serve youth (aged 12 and up) and adults that are struggling with Bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, life stressors, and other behavioral health issues. Our experienced staff consists of Advance Practice Nurses specifically trained in psychiatry, licensed nursing staff, and licensed therapists.
At Psychiatry and Counseling Associates, our staff are dedicated to bringing hope and recovery to individuals struggling with their mental well-being, empowering them to build happy, healthy lives. We are an interdisciplinary team of behavioral health professionals, using evidence-based practices to serve youth (aged 12 and up) and adults that are struggling with Bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, life stressors, and other behavioral health issues. Our experienced staff consists of Advance Practice Nurses specifically trained in psychiatry, licensed nursing staff, and licensed therapists.
Theresa DeBord
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MAT
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IL 61702 (Online Only)
I have been assisting the public for over Twenty-five years starting first as a Registered Nurse at a level 1 Trauma Center, Pediatrics, and Emergency medicine. I transitioned over from medical to mental health in 2016 when I realized there was and remains to be a need for mental health treatment. I truly love engaging with my clients while also assisting them with mental health management. While my main role is medication management, I also assist with therapy. If I think the client would benefit from more specific psychotherapy, I will refer to another provider.
I have been assisting the public for over Twenty-five years starting first as a Registered Nurse at a level 1 Trauma Center, Pediatrics, and Emergency medicine. I transitioned over from medical to mental health in 2016 when I realized there was and remains to be a need for mental health treatment. I truly love engaging with my clients while also assisting them with mental health management. While my main role is medication management, I also assist with therapy. If I think the client would benefit from more specific psychotherapy, I will refer to another provider.
Dan Foutch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Mental illness affects people from all walks of life and does not discriminate. I understand this and feel that everyone deserves compassionate treatment regardless of race, political affiliation, gender identity, sexual preference, or religious beliefs. I strive to provide trauma-informed care to all of my clients. This directly impacts my approach to treatment and has given me the ability to connect with my clients on a fundamental level. I understand that getting help can be difficult and that medication is not right for everyone. I will work with you to determine what is the best course of treatment for you.
Mental illness affects people from all walks of life and does not discriminate. I understand this and feel that everyone deserves compassionate treatment regardless of race, political affiliation, gender identity, sexual preference, or religious beliefs. I strive to provide trauma-informed care to all of my clients. This directly impacts my approach to treatment and has given me the ability to connect with my clients on a fundamental level. I understand that getting help can be difficult and that medication is not right for everyone. I will work with you to determine what is the best course of treatment for you.
Online Psychiatrists
Timelycare and Behavioral services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Oak Forest, IL 60452
Anxiety, depression, insomnia, mood disorders, PTSD to name a few are some of the mental health issues people struggle with every day. These mental health issues can have a negative impact on general wellbeing. You deserve to be happy, have confidence, self-love, and enjoy life. As a provider, I utilize a comprehensive approach to diagnose and formulate individualized treatment plan that will work out for you.
Anxiety, depression, insomnia, mood disorders, PTSD to name a few are some of the mental health issues people struggle with every day. These mental health issues can have a negative impact on general wellbeing. You deserve to be happy, have confidence, self-love, and enjoy life. As a provider, I utilize a comprehensive approach to diagnose and formulate individualized treatment plan that will work out for you.
Caryn works with clients ages 15+ in providing prescriber services and medication management for anything from Anxiety, Depression, Social Anxiety, ADHD, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive (OCD), PTSD, PostPartum Depression, Sleep Disturbances & Insomnia to Mood Disorders / BiPolar and more.
Caryn works with clients ages 15+ in providing prescriber services and medication management for anything from Anxiety, Depression, Social Anxiety, ADHD, Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive (OCD), PTSD, PostPartum Depression, Sleep Disturbances & Insomnia to Mood Disorders / BiPolar and more.
Hopemark Health Naperville
Psychiatrist, MD, FASAM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
Our psychiatric clinic in Naperville is committed to providing cutting-edge treatments for mental health challenges that have not responded to traditional approaches. We specialize in innovative treatments that have shown promise in clinical research, such as Ketamine-assisted therapy, Deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS), IV Ketamine, Spravato (nasal spray, esketamine), Medication Management, General Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, including EMDR.
Our psychiatric clinic in Naperville is committed to providing cutting-edge treatments for mental health challenges that have not responded to traditional approaches. We specialize in innovative treatments that have shown promise in clinical research, such as Ketamine-assisted therapy, Deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS), IV Ketamine, Spravato (nasal spray, esketamine), Medication Management, General Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, including EMDR.
Becoming Behavioral Health & Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60462
NOW accepting NEW Patients. Facing life’s challenges are difficult enough without struggling to find a provider that will take the time to listen & partner with you in your care. Well...search no more! Dana believes providing compassion & building a strong rapport are the foundations to creating a trusting partnership. She doesn't believe in "cookie cutter" approaches. Rather, Dana tailors each partners treatment plan according to their specific needs & stressors. She utilizes several different types of intervention including psychotherapy, psychotropic medication & naturopathy to help partners achieve an optimal quality of life.
NOW accepting NEW Patients. Facing life’s challenges are difficult enough without struggling to find a provider that will take the time to listen & partner with you in your care. Well...search no more! Dana believes providing compassion & building a strong rapport are the foundations to creating a trusting partnership. She doesn't believe in "cookie cutter" approaches. Rather, Dana tailors each partners treatment plan according to their specific needs & stressors. She utilizes several different types of intervention including psychotherapy, psychotropic medication & naturopathy to help partners achieve an optimal quality of life.
Tasheia Williams is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She earned her Master’s degree in Nursing at Walden University. Among the most common myths related to mental health is the idea that one is either mentally healthy or mentally ill. Regardless of one’s state of being, they exist on a continuum. As a provider, Tasheia provides the most recent evidence-based practice treatment to fully help each patient that is struggling with mental health.
Tasheia Williams is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. She earned her Master’s degree in Nursing at Walden University. Among the most common myths related to mental health is the idea that one is either mentally healthy or mentally ill. Regardless of one’s state of being, they exist on a continuum. As a provider, Tasheia provides the most recent evidence-based practice treatment to fully help each patient that is struggling with mental health.
Bayo Agbolade is a highly skilled Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Illinois. Specializing in adult general psychiatry, Bayo caters to individuals aged 18 to 65+ with a comprehensive range of mental health needs. His clinical expertise spans various areas, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, mood and personality disorders, substance use disorders, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). With a commitment to holistic care, Bayo approaches each client with a personalized and comprehensive perspective.
Bayo Agbolade is a highly skilled Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Illinois. Specializing in adult general psychiatry, Bayo caters to individuals aged 18 to 65+ with a comprehensive range of mental health needs. His clinical expertise spans various areas, including depression, anxiety, psychosis, mood and personality disorders, substance use disorders, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). With a commitment to holistic care, Bayo approaches each client with a personalized and comprehensive perspective.
Dr. Rosalynn Anderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-BC, FPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tinley Park, IL 60477 (Online Only)
I am accepting New Patients! A communicative Healthcare provider with a twenty-plus-year background assisting vulnerable patients with varying degrees of mental illness and substance-alcohol dependency. Certified in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. Well-versed in developing and implementing effective treatment plans and monitoring patient progress. Caring, compassionate professional dedicated to administering quality patient care to promote healing and health wellness.
I am accepting New Patients! A communicative Healthcare provider with a twenty-plus-year background assisting vulnerable patients with varying degrees of mental illness and substance-alcohol dependency. Certified in Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Medicine. Well-versed in developing and implementing effective treatment plans and monitoring patient progress. Caring, compassionate professional dedicated to administering quality patient care to promote healing and health wellness.
See more therapy options for Normal
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Normal, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Normal, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Normal, IL see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Normal?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.